Coming to Your First Concert?


1. Is there a dress code for West Virginia Symphony concerts?

No, no, no...wear clothes in which you feel comfortable.  There is never a dress code for any performance of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra.



2. Where do I park?

Network Parking operates a number of lots surrounding the Clay Center on concert evenings. Look for the red-shirted attendants and the white signs with the Clay Center logo. Ample parking is available in these lots for a cost of $3 per car. 


3. Can I bring children?

Only children who are mature enough to sit quietly during a concert, without disturbing their neighbors, should attend WVSO symphonic and pops concerts. For parents looking for a way to introduce younger kids to music, our Saturday morning Family Concerts are the perfect opportunity. Those are programs designed with kids in mind, each one lasting about one hour.


4. I'm worried that I won't know when to clap.

It has become traditional in symphonic works with multiple movements or sections to hold applause until the very end. If you're not sure when to clap, wait for those around you to begin. Another way to tell is to watch the conductor's arms – when he relaxes and drops his arms, that's a sure sign that applause is welcome.


5. Can I eat dinner at the Clay Center before the concert?

Embassy Suites, official caterer of the Clay Center , offers a sumptuous pre-performance buffet prior to each WVSO concert. The cost is $24.95 per person, and reservations may be made through the ticket office at 304-561-3570. These dinners are open to everyone.


6. Can I sit in one of those boxes?

Box seating for WVSO concerts is available in boxes 14 , 15, 16, 17, and 18 for the Area “A” ticket price. Ask about it at the ticket counter when you purchase your tickets.


7. Where are the restrooms?

There are restrooms on all 3 seating levels of the Clay Center's Maier Foundation Performance Hall. Men's rooms are on the right side of the house, and ladies' rooms are on the left.

 
 

Extra-Curricular Programs at the WVSO

Student Musician Card Program

 

The WVSO offers all Kanawha County Schools String Program students and all West Virginia Youth and New River Youth Symphony members a “Student Musician Card,” which allows each student free admission to Symphonic, Family Discovery and Montclaire String Quartet subscription concerts, based upon availability. Students may obtain a student string card from their string or orchestra instructor or may contact the WVSO Education Department directly. Each student will then be issued a free ticket at the Box Office the night of the performance (based upon availability) to present to the usher for entry into the concert hall.


TIP: You will have a better chance of getting seats during Friday evening performances.

This program is sponsored in part by Duncan's Motel, Inc. (dba Duncan's Carrier Service)

West Virginia Youth Symphony

The West Virginia Youth Symphony is an independent organization that offers students in elementary school through their freshman year in college an opportunity to receive quality music instruction and ensemble performance experience. Students audition for placement in one of three ensembles: Cadet Strings (beginning level students), Youth Strings (intermediate level students) or Youth Orchestra (a full orchestra open to string, brass and woodwind students). The WVYS also sponsors a Wind Ensemble comprised of the Youth Orchestra's brass and woodwind sections and a chamber program open to all participating students.

Parents, teachers and students interested in receiving additional information should contact the Youth Symphony General Manager at (304) 561-3542.